Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow in Photocatalysts Mapping using Super-resolution Electron Microscopy (FTC) (SCI

We seek to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow to work in a vibrant and multidisciplinary project funded by the EPSRC Working with Centres Programme under the supervision of Dr Anabel Lanterna in the School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham. The project focuses on Mapping Photocatalysts using Tandem Super-resolution Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy in collaboration with the SuperSTEM EPSRC National Research Facility for Advanced Electron Microscopy (Manchester) and the York-JEOL Nanocentre (York). We aim to gain unprecedented insights into the mechanisms of light-induced reactions and the conditions under which photocatalysts are activated or deactivated. This collaboration with one of the world’s leading research facilities will allow us to precisely determine atomic positions, bonding environments, and their implications for photocatalytic activity. The unique capabilities of the SuperSTEM facility, particularly its ability to combine spectroscopy with atomic-resolution imaging, will allow for comprehensive and reliable characterisation of photocatalyst surfaces, shedding light on potential activation and deactivation mechanisms. The environmental STEM at the York-JEOL Nanocentre will enable us to observe surface chemical reactions under near-realistic conditions, offering insights closer to actual reaction conditions than ever before.

The successful applicant will be responsible for data/image acquisition, analysis and interpretation and for using this information to design efficient heterogeneous photocatalytic processes. This will involve working on the synthesis and characterisation of heterogeneous photocatalysts, performing photocatalytic reactions and working closely with the project partners (at Manchester and York) to get the required training. Creative problem solving, excellent oral and written communication skills, teamworking skills, the ability to manage the day-to-day running of a research project and prepare ‘journal ready’ manuscript and high-quality supporting information (spectroscopic data, etc.) for publications are expected. The ability to foster a supportive, creative research culture and the commitment to learn from others is essential.Candidates must hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in chemistry. 

This is a full-time, fixed-term post (36.25 hours per week) and is available for a period of 18 months starting on or around 1 September 2025 (and no later than 1 October 2025). The deadline for formal application, via the university of Nottingham portal (link to be added) is 16/06/2025.

Information about the Lanterna group can be found at https://www.lanternaresearchgroup.com/. Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr. Anabel Lanterna (anabel.lanterna@nottingham.ac.uk). Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted. Formal applications must be made through the University’s online application system.

The School values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. The School of Chemistry holds a Silver Athena SWAN Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing women's careers in science. You can read more about what this means at http://www.athenaswan.org.uk/ and on our website http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/chemistry/about/athena-swan.aspx. The University of Nottingham is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Closing Date: 16 Jun 2025 Category: Research and Teaching (R&T)